Whether you’re heading there with friends, kids in tow, traveling solo, or just want to see if Dubai lives up to the hype, this list has you covered. From desert safaris to indoor ski slopes to gold-drenched facials, here’s your cheat sheet for the best things to do in Dubai.

Bonus: We’ve added tips to save cash, avoid crowds, and link you to deep dives from our Dubai travel archives.

Hit the Big Attractions (Yes, They’re Worth It)

Let’s be honest. When you land in Dubai, you’re stepping into a city that doesn’t do subtle. And that’s half the fun.

• Burj Khalifa – The world’s tallest skyscraper. It’s iconic, and yes, it’s worth standing at the base and craning your neck skyward. If you want the view, try to book your visit early in the day or around sunset for the best experience.
• Dubai Fountain Show – Located right below the Burj Khalifa, this water and light show is one of the best free things in the city. More free things to do in Dubai tips here.
• Dubai Miracle Garden – Over 50 million blooming flowers arranged in whimsical shapes, think giant teddy bears made of petals. Perfect with kids, or just if you’re craving a color overload.
• Ain Dubai – The world’s largest observation wheel. Go in the evening for glittering skyline views.

Add a Bit of Quirk (The Unusual Stuff)

Dubai is great at taking things to the extreme (in the best way).

• Ski Dubai – A massive indoor ski hill inside the Mall of the Emirates. Where else can you ski, bobsled, or hang with penguins in the middle of the desert?
• Chillout Lounge – A café built from ice, down to the chairs. They hand you a parka and serve soup, sandwiches, and steaming mocktails. It’s kitschy and fun, especially if it’s +42°C outside.
• Global Village – A seasonal multicultural theme park with food, shows, and shopping from 90+ countries. Think Epcot, but with more shawarma.

For even more unexpected adventures (zorbing, lava shell massages, and more), don’t miss 15 unique things to do in Dubai.

Things to Do with Kids (That Adults Secretly Love Too)

We’ve traveled the world with our kiddos, and Dubai makes it easy to keep everyone happy.

• Dubai Aquarium – Inside the Dubai Mall, with a massive viewing panel and walk-through tunnel.
• Adventure Zone – Ziplining, wall climbing, trampolines, basically a kid’s dream day.
• LEGOLAND Dubai – Smaller than its U.S. cousins, but full of charm.
• Desert Safari – Camel rides, henna painting, dune bashing, and belly dancing under the stars.

Get the full breakdown in our family-friendly Dubai guide.

Explore Dubai for Free (Yes, Really)

Dubai has plenty of luxe attractions, but you don’t need to empty your wallet to enjoy the city.

• Jumeirah Beach – Public, clean, and perfect for a swim or people watching session.
• Dubai Creek – Watch wooden boats glide by and wander through the charming Al Fahidi Historic District nearby.
• Alserkal Avenue – Dubai’s hippest art scene. No entry fee, but you might leave inspired.
• Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary – Flamingos in the desert? Yup. Best in winter.

Here’s our full list of the best free places to visit.

The Best Souvenirs to Buy in Dubai

Dubai is a shopper’s paradise, and yes, you can find something cool beyond fridge magnets.

• Camel Milk Chocolate – Sounds weird. Tastes amazing. Al Nassma is the go to brand.
• Pashmina Shawls – Real pashmina is super soft and lightweight (and comes with bragging rights). Watch out for fake acrylics.
• Arabic Coffee Sets – Perfect if you’ve fallen in love with cardamom laced coffee.
• Spices and Dates – Stock up on saffron, za’atar, and plump Medjool dates from the myriad of souks around the city.
• Miniature Burj Khalifas – Yes, they’re a bit touristy, but they’re fun. Especially the gold-plated ones.

You’ll find most of these in the Gold, Spice, and Textile Souks or at the massive Dubai Mall. For more ideas, check out our guide to the best things to buy in Dubai.

When Should You Go to Dubai?

Here’s the short answer: November to March. Warm days, cool nights, and everything’s open.

Shoulder seasons like April or October? Great if you like heat and shorter lines. Summer? It’s doable, but prepare for a sauna experience. A lot of outdoor attractions shut down and you’ll live in air conditioning.

We break it all down in our seasonal guide to visiting Dubai.

Bonus Tips: Quick Wins for a Smoother Trip

• Wi-Fi is everywhere, including malls, beaches, even the Metro. Bring a VPN just in case.
• Public transport is efficient, clean, and safe. Use the Metro for longer distances and ride-sharing apps for short hops.
• Dress code – Dubai’s pretty relaxed, but modest clothing is appreciated in public areas. Think shoulders and knees covered.

The Takeaway

Dubai is one of those rare cities where you can ski, shop, sandboard, and sip saffron tea, all in the same day. It’s flashy, yes, but it’s also filled with warmth, color, and creativity.

Whether you’re planning a week of family fun, a romantic getaway, or an offbeat solo trip, Dubai has something unexpected waiting for everyone.

Still planning? Save this post for later and check out these posts of ours next:

• The Best Things to Do in Dubai with Kids
• 15 Unique Things to Do in Dubai
• Things to Buy in Dubai
• The Best Places to Visit in Dubai for Free
• When’s the Best Time to Visit Dubai?

Dubai, often hailed as the City of Gold, is a melting pot of cultures, skyscrapers, and luxuries. It’s known worldwide for iconic landmarks, like the Burj Khalifa and the Palm Jumeirah, which come with their own hefty price tags.

However, what many travelers don’t realize is that this modern metropolis is also home to many free attractions and activities.

Yes, you heard that right! You can experience the magic of Dubai without breaking the bank.

The Best Places to Visit in Dubai for Free

As avid (and often frugal) travelers, we love discovering hidden gems that don’t necessarily come with a hefty entrance fee. So, buckle up as we take you on a journey through the best places to visit in Dubai for free.

The Dubai Fountain Show

Located at the base of the Burj Khalifa and the Dubai Mall, the Dubai Fountain Show is well worth a visit.

The water jets here dance gracefully in tune with the music, creating a mesmerizing choreography of light, water, and sound.

The best part? It’s completely free!

Shows run every evening, and each one is unique, so you might want to catch more than one. We think it’s one of the places to visit in Dubai for free at night.

Dubai Creek

Dubai may be known for its modernity, but the Dubai Creek is a window into its past. This saltwater creek was the original heart of the city and a hub for pearl diving and fishing. Today, you can stroll along its banks, watch the traditional dhows (wooden boats) glide by, or simply soak in the old-world charm of the place.

Don’t forget to explore the nearby Al Fahidi Historic District to get a glimpse of traditional Emirati architecture.

Jumeirah Beach

Who says you need to pay to enjoy the beach in Dubai?

Jumeirah Beach is open to the public and offers pristine white sands and clear blue waters. Whether you want to take a dip, build sandcastles, or simply relax and watch the sunset, Jumeirah Beach is the perfect spot.

And if you’re lucky, you might even get a view of skydivers descending onto the nearby Palm Jumeirah!

Alserkal Avenue

This is a treat for art lovers!

Located in the Al Quoz industrial area, Alserkal Avenue is Dubai’s artsy corner. It’s filled with galleries, art installations, and creative spaces. Wander through the lanes, and you’ll come across contemporary art pieces, thought-provoking exhibitions, and even occasional workshops. The vibrant atmosphere here is sure to ignite your creativity.

See what they have lined up for your next visit.

Dubai Marina Walk

Dubai Marina is a man-made canal city, and the Marina Walk is a seven km long pedestrian walkway that runs along it. It’s the perfect place to take a leisurely stroll, with views of the towering skyscrapers on one side and million dollar yachts bobbing on the water on the other. The atmosphere here is electric, especially in the evening with street performers, markets, and food stalls coming alive.

It’s a wonderful walk in the day, or at night, when you’ll marvel at the lights from the skyscrapers.

Camel Racing at Al Marmoom Racetrack

Experience the traditional sport of the UAE – camel racing!

The Al Marmoom Racetrack hosts regular races during the cooler months (usually from 6 to 9 pm), and attending these races is free. It’s a unique experience, watching these lumbering creatures race across the track with small robotic jockeys on their backs and owners following behind on 4×4’s egging their camels on.

Don’t forget to bring your binoculars!

Kite Beach

Located near Jumeirah’s main street, Kite Beach is not just for kite surfers, although watching them ride the waves against the backdrop of the Burj Al Arab is a treat in itself.

This stretch of white sandy beach is perfect for a day of sunbathing, beach volleyball, or enjoying a leisurely walk on the jogging tracks. The beach also has a Skate Park, outdoor trampolines, and adventure gyms.

While some activities are chargeable, you can always find a cozy spot on the sand to lay back and enjoy the rhythmic sound of the waves for free. Make sure to check out some of the amazing villas along the way to the beach as well.

Hatta

A bit on the outskirts of Dubai, Hatta is a mountainous enclave that offers beautiful landscapes and a peek into the rural life of the UAE.

While some activities here might be paid, just driving through the winding mountain roads, taking in the views, and visiting the Hatta Dam is absolutely free.

Jumeirah Mosque

Often referred to as the most beautiful mosque in Dubai, the Jumeirah Mosque stands as a stellar example of Islamic architecture. Built entirely from white stone in the medieval Fatimid tradition, its intricate artistry and twin minarets make it a photographer’s delight, especially in the evening when it’s bathed in soft lights.

What’s unique about this mosque is that it’s one of the few in Dubai open to non-Muslims, making it a significant cultural experience for visitors. While there is a fee for the guided tour, which includes a detailed insight into Emirati culture and religion, simply admiring the mosque from the outside and its surroundings is free.

Whether you opt for the tour or just a visit, the Jumeirah Mosque offers a serene and enlightening experience.

Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary

Situated at the mouth of the Dubai Creek, this wetland reserve is a haven for birdwatchers.

It’s home to a large number of flamingos, which can be seen during the winter months. Besides flamingos, the sanctuary is also home to over 450 species of wildlife. There are three bird hides located in the sanctuary, from where you can view these creatures without disturbing them.

Definitely a serene escape from the city hustle!

The Ripe Market

One of Dubai’s best open-air markets, the Ripe Market is a favorite among both tourists and locals.

Set up in various locations depending on the season (Zabeel Park in the cooler months and indoors at Times Square Center during summer), this market showcases local artisans, organic groceries, handcrafted jewelry, and gourmet food trucks.

It’s a fantastic place to experience the city’s community vibe, pick up unique souvenirs, or simply enjoy one of the best things to do in Dubai with kids or friends. While purchasing items might cost you, wandering around, soaking in the atmosphere, and enjoying free entertainment and workshops won’t cost a thing.

The Best Free Places to Visit in Dubai

Dubai is not just a destination for the elite. It caters to all kinds of travelers, including budget explorers. The next time you find yourself in this dazzling city, remember that some of the best experiences don’t come with a price tag.

So, lace up your walking shoes, put on your explorer’s hat, and set out to discover the free wonders of Dubai. As we like to say, travel is not about how much you spend, but how much you discover.

Safe travels!

Looking for some more great articles? Check these out:

• Things To Buy In Dubai – Souvenirs You’ll Love
• When is The Best Time To Visit Dubai? It’s Not When You Think
• 15 Unique Things to Do in Dubai That You Never Knew Existed
• This International WiFi Hotspot Gives You Unlimited Travel Internet: The TravelWifi Tep Wireless

Dubai is one of the best places in the world to pick up a souvenir. Prices are great, there are plenty of places to shop, and there’s an excellent selection of unique and interesting things to buy. If you’re not in the city, we even have some helpful tips for where to pick up Dubai souvenirs online.

Things to buy in Dubai

Shopping is one of the unique things to do in Dubai. You’ll find colorful spices, brightly colored shawls and slippers, intricately woven rugs, and bejeweled lamps, and more.

There are plenty of places to shop in Dubai UAE, including traditional open-air markets and modern mega malls like Dubai Mall or Mall of the Emirates. If you’re curious when to visit Dubai, the cooler months of January and February are great for browsing outdoor markets. Avoid the summer months of July and August, which have average daily highs of over 100 Fahrenheit.

If you visit in the hot summer months, take some respite by visiting the air conditioned Dubai Mall. Shopping at one of the the indoor mega malls is on our list of things to do in Dubai with kids, because Dubai’s indoor malls are also also packed with movie theaters, restaurants, and kids play places.

Since WiFi is so important to us and keeping this blog running, we really love that it’s so easy to stay connected best VPN in Dubai. There’s public Wi-Fi almost everywhere, including public malls, public beaches, and even Dubai Metro. Wi-Fi everywhere is also a quick and easy way to hook the kids up with some fun games while we focus on shopping.

Here are our top picks for Dubai souvenirs.

Chocolate made from camel’s milk

Yes, you read that right. You can buy milk chocolate made from camel’s milk instead of cow’s milk.

It makes a great souvenir, since almost everyone loves chocolate, and it’s a unique Dubai gift.

There are a few companies that make camel’s milk chocolate, including Al Nassma and Domori. There’s a nice comparison of the brands here.

A colorful shawl

Shops in Dubai are packed with brightly colored, beautiful scarves and shawls, some with intricate embroidery.

For a special gift, a pashmina shawl is an especially good choice. Pashmina is a fine type of cashmere wool. Just be aware of imitations – many shops sell cheap acrylics, but brand them as real pashmina.

Supposedly, real pashmina is generally matte (but can have a very light sheen). You can also try the burn test. Take a small fiber off the end and burn it. If it smells like burning hair, it’s likely pashmina, but if it smells like plastic then it’s a fake.

See 100% Cashmere Pashmina shawls on Amazon here.

Khanjar dagger

A khanjar is a curved dagger that originally came from Oman. It’s ceremonial, and traditionally worn by men. They’re made of different types of metal, and can have wood, plastic, or camel bone on the hilt.

Make sure any country you’re traveling through, or returning to, allows importing Khanjar daggers.

If they’re allowed, then you’ll need to travel back home with your Khanjar in your checked suitcase. Taking your Khanjar home in your carry on may cause problems at airport security.

Shop khanjar daggars on Etsy.

Arabic kava coffee pot

An Arabic Brass Coffee Pot is a thing of beauty.

These pots, are also called dallah, and many sold in souvenir shops are meant to be decorative only. To make coffee in a dallah you need to heat it on the stove, so ensure your pot is meant for use if you plan to make coffee in it. You’ll pay less for a decorative pot than one designed for everyday use.

You can buy these pots in souks, modern malls, and even in supermarkets where coffee is sold.

See on Amazon – Stainless Steel Gold & Chrome color Tradition ArabicCoffee/Tea Pot (Dallah).

Dates and dried fruit

Since the Middle East is famous for dates, these make a great souvenir. There are over 300 types of dates, including Khidri, Sokari, Madjool and Kholas. You can find over 20 varieties at Bateel shops throughout Dubai, and they can be one of the more cheap souvenirs from Dubai.

You generally can’t bring fresh fruit or veggies over an international border, but unopened packages of dried fruit are often allowed. Some countries have limits on how much dried fruit you can bring into the country. See information for for Canada and the USA here.

They’re not from Dubai, but you can find these organic Medjool Dates on Amazon now.

Traditional Arab slippers

These traditional curly toed slippers are a unique souvenir, and are a lot like the ones Aladdin wore in the movies.

Curly toed slippers are designed for men, while women’s have a flat tip. You can get them in a dizzying array of colors, some with intricate thread work and beading. Women’s styles also have different choices in heel height.

Shop similar slippers on Etsy.

Spices

You’ll find mounds are fragrant and colorful spices at every outdoor (and many indoor) markets throughout Dubai. There’s everything from dried rose petals to cinnamon sticks, to cardamom, and dozens of more obscure spices.

You generally can’t bring fresh flowers or spices over an international border, but unopened packages of dried spices are often allowed. Check with your country to make sure importing spices for personal use is allowed.

See Red Saffron Thread on Amazon here.

Aladdin lamp

Aladdin lamps are everywhere in shops in Dubai. They’re often made of brass, with stones or intricate carving for decoration.

See this beautiful Aladdin lamp on Amazon in 3 colors.

Arabic rugs

Often called Persian carpets, these Arabic rugs mostly come in earthy colors like red, brown and tan.

Prices are all over the map, and vary depending on size, intricacy, weave, and fabric used.

Bakhoor or oudh

Oud (or Oudh) is incense made of raw agarwood chips or pieces. They’re natural with little processing. Oud is often expensive.

Bakhoor incense is generally processed incense that can contain agarwood. The most expensive bakhoor is made using the best Oud and essential oils. Bakhoor can take the form of balls, chips, or blocks.

Shop this set of 2 Premium BAKHOOR Incense on Amazon.

Perfume oil attar

Attar (also called ittar) are essential oils extracted from flowers, usually by steam or water distillation. You’ll find little bottles of attar at almost every market or mall.

See this Dehn El Oud Mubarak 6mLAlcohol Free and Natural Agarwood Oudh Attar on Amazon now.

Do you have any favorite things to buy in Dubai? Let us know!

We’ve travelled the world with our kiddos, and it’s always wonderful to find a city like Dubai that’s so accommodating for kids.

Dubai is a fantastic destination for kids, with attractions, theme parks, and pretty much almost anything you can imagine.

There are so many unique things to do in Dubai you’ll never be bored.

Dubai’s the kind of place where you can go hiking in the dessert before dawn and indoor snow skiing before lunch. Since it’s likely hot out, not much beats a desert safari, or spending the afternoon at a water park and after a world class supper. You can visit one of the many gardens in the early evening with the kids.

The Best Things to do in Dubai with Kids

If you’re thinking of heading to Dubai with kids, definitely check these top things to do in Dubai as a family.

You can also opt to take a tour in Dubai to make things even easier. WithLocals has some cool experiences, including a street food tour of Dubai, a scenic tour on a private yacht, or even a private desert safari tour!

Got your Dubai visa, and ready to explore? Check out these fun things to do in Dubai with children, from toddlers to teens.

Dubai Miracle Garden

If you think a trip to a garden is boring, then you haven’t visited Dubai Miracle Garden. There are over 50 million blooming flowers here, all showcased in elaborate sculptures and designs.

Like the rest of Dubai, the Miracle Garden is over the top, colorful, and fun. Kids pretty much universally love it. You can find the Miracle Garden in the district of Dubailand. Tickets run around $11 USD for adults, and $8 USD for kids.

Ski Dubai

Have you ever wanted to ski in the desert? Well, Dubai has you covered.

Ski Dubai is a 22,500 square meter indoor ski resort. It runs year round, and it’s part of the Mall of the Emirates.

Tickets to the snow park, which includes the snow plough playground, ice caves, tubing run, bobsled, and climbing wall, run around $50 USD for adults and $45 USD for kids.

If you want to hit the slopes themselves, a 2 hour skiing pass is about $55 USD for adults and $50 for kids.

Want to hang with the Gentoo and King Penguins? That’ll set you back a cool $62 USD however know that kids under 14 aren’t allowed.

Check out what Will Smith has to say about Ski Dubai in the video below.

Adventure Zone in Dubai

Adventure Zone by Adventure HQ is a blast for kids. It’s an indoor adventure facility with a skate park, boulder wall, cable climb, zip line, and trampoline park.

It’s not cheap at $38 USD for a 90 minute session, but you can save with all day passes or group packages.

There are several locations around Dubai.

Dubai Fountains

The Dubai Fountain is a spectacular choreographed music, light, and water fountain show. If you’ve ever seen the fountains at the Bellagio in Vegas, well, this is a lot bigger.

The Fountain is set on the 30-acre man made Burj Khalifa Lake in downtown Dubai.

Tickets are about $18 USD per person.

Burj Khalifa

Burj Khalifa is a mind-bending 160 story tall skyscraper. It cost a whopping 1.5 billion USD to build.

There’s a spectacular water fountain show, a lot of shopping, and a must-see 360 degree view from the top.

The normal tourist tour only goes to the 124th and 125th floors, and it can be quite crowded. A more expensive option is to go all the way to the top.

Be prepared that lines to get in or out of the tower can be long at peak times.

Tickets for the 124th and 125th floors are $55 USD for adults, and $27 USD for kids. Kids under 4 are free. Prices are higher in peak hours.

Access to level 148 (plus the 124th and 125th floors) is an eye watering $100 USD for adults and kids alike. Prices are higher in peak hours.

IMG Worlds of Adventure

IMG Worlds of Adventure is an indoor amusement park. There are all the rides, eateries and shows you could ever want, with Marvel and Cartoon Network themes in abundance.

The facility is 28 football fields large and the attractions include rides with your kid’s favorite characters, such as the Powerpuff Girls and friends from Marvel’s unique universe.

This place is huge, so wear comfy shoes, and be prepared to walk.

Adult admission is about $78 USD, and kids (under 1.2m in height) are about $70 USD.

Creative Fun at OliOli

Designed for kids between the age of 2 and 11, OliOli’s divided into eight separate areas, each featuring a different theme. These include a hanging play area, an area where cannon balls are launched and a Creative Lab area where kids can do all sorts of fun things.

Tickets cost $32 USD for the first two hours, and $8 USD for every hour after.

Aquaventure Waterpark

The Dubai Aquaventure water park has something for everyone in the family. The bravest can try thrilling rides, such as the tube that takes riders through a shark lagoon, while the younger ones or those who prefer a milder sort of entertainment can splash around in the children’s play area.

The Aquaventure Waterpark is part of the Atlantis resorts, however you can luckily buy a day pass. However, if you stay at the all-inclusive Atlantis resorts your ticket should be included.

Day passes are about 78 USD if you’re over 1.2 metres tall, and $64 if you’re under 1.2 metres tall. Kids age 0 to 2 are free.

A Desert Adventure

Dubai has everything that humans can make, but it also has a very special, natural feature that cannot be left unexplored: the desert.

The activities that you and your family can enjoy on the arid landscape include shorter or longer rides on camel back, henna-painting and sand-boarding. Longer trips can include a night spent under the star-studded desert sky, falcon shows, dune rides and much more.

Visit the Dubai Safari Park

IMPORTANT: The Dubai Safari Park is currently closed, but set to re-open in 2019! Check the Safari Park website for details.

When the Dubai Zoo closed in 2017, the animals were shifted to the Dubai Safari.

Today, the Dubai Safari occupies 100 hectares of diverse landscape.

There are pedestrian walkways lined with lush vegetation, driving tracks and desert plains, and they all make for an unforgettable experience. The park is home to over 3,000 individual animals, belonging to 250 species .

A visit to the park offers great opportunities to spot giraffes, hippos and zebras and the kids can play with the smaller, friendlier creatures in the petting zoo.

Tickets are about $14 USD for adults, and $6 USD for kids.

IMPORTANT: The Dubai Safari Park is currently closed, but set to re-open in 2019! Check the Safari Park website for details.

Explorations of Virtual Reality

Dubai is a world-renowned center for entertainment technology as well. So, if your kids are in for hi-tech adventures, a day at the VR Park in Dubai’s Mall is a must see and if you have the time, a must try.

VR Park Dubai is the world’s largest VR park.

It’s on level 2 of The Dubai Mall.

It costs $24 USD for one of seven of the VR experiences.

Looking for more Dubai help? Check out the best time to visit Dubai.

Visiting KL with kids, too

It’s hard to talk about Dubai without bringing up great memories of Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia for me. They’re both incredible cities, with so much to offer.

We still haven’t had the chance to visit Kuala Lumpur with kids, though it was our hub on our first year-long adventure together as a couple.

On our next visit to KL, we’re definitely going to visit with children.

We may even relax a little from our usual standard of independent travel and take a tour in Kuala Lumpur to get a better feel for the local culture and food. There are some fun options, including a family-specific kick-start tour (which sounds like a perfect option for us!), a tasting tour of KL, and even a layover tour if we’re short on time!

Have you visited Dubai with kids? Do you have anything to add to our list of kids activities in Dubai that you shouldn’t miss?

Spoiler: It’s not when you think.

Well, the truth is you can go anytime, but to really have the best experience, you want to be there when the weather isn’t too hot, so you can hit the beaches as well as the mile long designer malls.

Since air conditioning is common throughout the city, and people do in Dubai year round, it’s definitely accessible for most of the year.

However, if you really want to enjoy your trip, the best time to visit Dubai is from early November to late March. That’s when the average highs make going outdoors a joy, and give you plenty of things to see and do both inside and outside the city.

The Best Time to Visit Dubai

Already sold on booking a trip to Dubai?

Dubai’s weather

It’s no secret that Dubai is a hot place. Both figuratively and literally. Temperatures routinely go above 105°F or 40 Celsius over their summer (June to September) while daily highs during winter hit the low 80s and high 70s. That’s plenty high for hitting world famous Jumeirah Beach or spending the afternoon driving the nearby sand dunes in the adjacent desert.

If you’re still not convinced about the best time to visit Dubai, just remember that Dubai is nicknamed the Desert City for a reason. Dubai literally lies in the middle of the Arabian Desert. As such, there’s no shortage of sand, and though the days can get hot, the nights definitely stay cool outside of their hot summer season.

Dubai is also naturally a dry place, and you can expect nothing but sunshine most days of the year. That said, it does get damp in the hot summer months, so there’s another reason to go to Dubai during the winter.

Dubai’s tourist season or high season

What’s the best season to visit Dubai?

It stands to reason that Dubai’s largest tourist season coincides with the weather. Dubai’s high season runs from November to March as well.

As such, the only drawback to visiting Dubai in the winter is that it also coincides with their busiest season. With that kind of weather, and so many unique things to do in Dubai, it’s no wonder everyone wants to visit during winter.

Airfare  and hotel prices reach their peak prices during Dubai’s high season. However, the big plus is that everything is open during the winter in Dubai. Lots of shops and attractions close down during their summer months when most people aren’t willing to brave the heat.

That means that if you go from November to March you’ll get a chance to visit any of Dubai’s three3 water parks as well as the hugely popular Global Village. There’s also LEGOLAND Dubai (read our review of LEGOLAND Florida here) and the world’s largest indoor theme park, the IMG Worlds of Adventure. You can also get your Bollywood on at Dubai’s Bollywood Park!

Dubai’s shoulder season

Dubai’s shoulder seasons, which are unofficially April/May and then September/October, can get pretty warm. If you love the heat, this might be the best time to travel to Dubai, since things quiet down in the city around this time. That means shorter lineups at the attractions and better deals for flights and hotels.

It’s also a great time to enjoy mornings at the beach and early evenings walking around Dubai’s marina and boardwalks. Dubai truly comes alive as the sun sets.

Of course, it also means that certain places and attraction are either shut down or on reduced hours, so you have to weigh everything out. If you want to see Dubai in all its glory, while also working heavily on your tan, while also saving a few dollars, then Dubai’s shoulder season might be for you.

Dubai’s low season

Don’t like the outdoors anyway or just love a great deal? Then Dubai’s low season, which runs from June to September, might be for you. Sure, lots of things are closed down due to the summer heat, but the world class malls and shops are still open and you can get some killer deals on everything from flights and hotels to store wide sales.

Even better, you can often score some fantastic deals on airfare during low season.

If you’re more highbrow, Dubai has you covered as well. Dubai isn’t known as the cultural center of the Middle East for nothing. There are dozens of galleries, art exhibits, cinemas, music halls, cafes and clubs all around the city that aren’t as dependent on the weather. You can also do everything from indoor skiing to indoor skydiving in Dubai year round, and still enjoy early mornings at the beach and late nights walking along the paved paths and boardwalks along the Persian Gulf.

Best time to go to Dubai

No matter which season you head to Dubai, there’s bound to be something for you to do in this cosmopolitan, man-made marvel of a city.

In winter, you can enjoy sand boarding down the slopes of Big Red, the colorful 91 meter high sand dune just outside the city, or traveling back in time and enjoying the rich scents, sights and sounds of the ancient souks still found at the heart of Dubai.

In the shoulder season, you can visit any of Dubai’s theme parks and enjoy the empty lines, as well as carefree mornings basking in the Arabian sunshine along the miles of Persian Gulf beaches, while still enjoying the marvels of Dubai at night.

In Dubai’s hot summer season, you can forego the lines and prices and enjoy everything a cultured city like Dubai has to offer. Just realize that you’ll want to spend all your time inside to fully enjoy the city in the summer months.

In short, Dubai has something for everyone all year long and having the third busiest airport in the world means that getting to Dubai is as easy as booking your airfare.

Looking for something unique to do in Dubai? Check out our post on unique things to do in Dubai here.

Where to stay in Dubai!

The Dubai luxury hotel

If you’re looking for a luxury hotel in Dubai with a beach and Spa, you can’t do much better than the highly rated Nikki Beach Resort and Spa Dubai. It’s gorgeous, rates well, and many rooms include breakfast. Just be ready to shell out $500 a night or more.

See availability and prices.

The Affordable Alternative

The Dusit D2 Kenz Hotel Dubai is a solid budget choice. It’s got free WiFi and free parking, and often comes in at under $100 a night, and gets great ratings for staff, location, and large rooms.

See prices here.

The family hotel

The Jerimiah Creekside Hotel rates extremely well with families. It has large rooms, good staff, plus fast check in. It should run abour $150 a night.

See prices here.

The Hostel

You can’t do much better than Dubai’s At the Top Hostel. There are Privates, Twins, Quadruples as well as Female/Male/Mixed Dormitories for 2, 4, 6 & 8 guests, and it’s a few minutes walk to the public beach with famous Barasti beach bar. WiFi and breakfast are free.

See prices and availability.

Want to spend your days in luxurious pools and exploring world class aquariums while spending your evenings in some of the trendiest clubs and lounges on the planet? If so, have you considered checking out some unique experiences in Dubai? Dubai is not only one of the fastest growing cities on the planet, it’s also become a hot travel destination.

We’ve known dozens of bloggers and travelers who’ve visited this popular United Arab Emirates city and loved it so much they keep going back. They speak so highly of Dubai that we’re sorting out which one of many fantastic Dubai holidays that we want to take first.

15 Unique Things to Do in Dubai

We’ve wanted to visit Dubai for years, and every year it creeps higher on our family travel bucket list. With giant skyscrapers surrounded by the blindingly white sands of the Arabian Desert, Dubai is as unique as it is exotic and is high on our list of you-gotta-see-it-for-yourself places.

So whether you’re there for work, for play or just to take in the sheer grandeur of this desert oasis, here are 15 unique things to do in Dubai.

Go skiing in the desert

No, I’m not talking about sand skiing, though you can do that in Dubai as well. Ski Dubai, in the massive Mall of the Emirates, have built a 22,500 square meter indoor ski area complete with lifts and tubing runs.

As Canadians who live next to one of Canada’s best ski hills (Big White), indoor skiing is a strange concept. We’ve always associated skiing with big blue skies and towering mountains, but we’d love to give indoor skiing a try as well.

This has to be one of the most unique things in Dubai. You can even go zorbing on ice or race your friends down a subzero dual zipline. If that’s not enough, get up close and personal with penguins at the penguin encounter. I think our kids would go just for the penguins!

Get frosty

When we first started looking into visiting Dubai, we checked the temperature as we’d heard it can get warm. Apparently, that’s a bit of an understatement, as temperatures ranging  around 41 °C (105 °F) are quite common. Wow!

If you’ve had enough of the scorching sun, you can cool down by popping into the Chillout Lounge, which is built entirely from ice with an ambient temperature of -6 °C (42 °F). With Dubai summers hitting +42 °C (106 °F), the 36 °C (64 °F) temperature difference can be quite a shock to the system. Don’t worry, they give you warm clothes to wear and serve hot soup, sandwiches, a variety of desserts as well as some delicious mocktails.

Get wet

We love water of all kinds, and you can usually find us snorkeling, kayaking, or even boogie boarding at the beach.

The problem with Dubais is that it’s mostly all desert. That said, there are plenty of ways to keep cool in the water.

You can spend the day hydrating your skin at one of Dubai’s 3 large waterparks. From big slides to big pools, you’ll have guaranteed big fun. Just remember to bring your suncreen.

Get pampered

Need to relax after a long day of seeing the sights in Dubai? Relax in one of the many beauty spas found throughout Dubai that offer lava shell massages or facial treatments using 24k gold leaf. Yes, a facial using real gold. Don’t worry, you’re worth it.

Get unkinked

Tired of regular yoga?

Micki’s a real yoga fan (she does yoga almost every day) and suggested I add this one to our list: Swing Yoga that can be found in many fitness centers around Dubai.  If doing yoga while hanging upside down or half tied in knots doesn’t put a smile on your face, you need to re-evaluate your definition of fun!

It takes a village

Looking for something to do between November and April? Global Village might be exactly what you’re after. This huge family entertainment and cultural attraction allows you to visit the entire world concentrated into one place. Complete with kiosks representing over 30 countries, you can shop, dine and be entertained at one of the many live performances from around the world.

Milk it

Regular old water not cutting it anymore? Try a goat’s milk bath in one of the special Jacuzzi’s at the renowned Talisse Ottoman Spa. Not only will it will make your skin more beautiful than ever but you’ll be as refreshed as Cleopatra was when she first started taking milk baths a few thousand years ago.

Fly like a board?

For this next one, I’d suggest a big dollop of adventure, and some good hand eye coordination. Even Micki, who’ll try almost anything once, has some reservations about trying this next activity.

If you are a fan of waters ports and you love extremes, you can combine the two and try flyboarding over the Persian Gulf while you’re in Dubai. If flying high above the water on a board connected to a watercraft by a long hose fills you with excitement, then consider yourself excited.

Defy gravity

If flyboarding doesn’t cut it for you, you can also try indoor skydiving.

iFly Dubai is home to the very first double vertical wind tunnel in the world. Scared of heights? Don’t worry, for the majority of the time you’re only ever a few feet off the ground, however for a little more adrenaline you can go way higher.

This one honestly sounds like a blast, as I can see our oldest, who’s 11, loving the sensation!

Dune Riding

Dubai likes to do things over the top. It’s one of the reasons we think it would be a fantastic city to visit, and soon.

7 star hotel, check. Tallest building in the world, check. Giant artificial archipelago of islands in the shape of a palm tree, check. Well, Dubai is also home to a vast and sprawling desert. The Arabian Desert is just on it’s doorstep and you can go on a desert safari in air conditioned comfort as you ride the dunes while searching for Aladdin’s treasure. Feel free to imagine the vehicle as your own personal roller coaster, I would.

Be a race car driver

Fulfill your lifelong dream of driving a Formula 1 car while speeding around other super cars with the professionals at Dream Racing. Not only will you be driving a car that’s probably worth more than your house, you’ll also be going faster than you ever dreamed possible.

I think we’ll keep this one for the adults in our family.

Ice Cream Gold

If you’ve been following us for a while, you may have picked up on the fact that we love our ice cream. In fact, we’ve even visited countries based on ice cream recommendations (check out dondurma ice cream in Turkey!).

In Dubai, the city’s wealth is evident everywhere you look. As such, gold is rampant, even on ice cream. The cities most expensive ice cream dessert, at around $800 USD each, can be found at the Scoopi Cafe, one of the unique restaurants in Dubai.

The dessert is a sundae made with vanilla bean ice cream from Madagascar, saffron from Iran, rare black truffles from Italy and 23-carat gold flakes and powder. The Black Diamond might be a golden delicacy few get to savor however it doesn’t stop people from checking out what other heavenly delights can be found at this trendy ice cream boutique.

Camel ho!

After our experience riding dromedary camels in the Sahara desert of Morocco, we’ve become big fans of these gentle animals. Even our then four year old loved camel riding!

Thanks to the desert that Dubai calls home, it’s no surprise that camels played a role in Dubai’s rise to fame. Whether you’re watching a camel race complete with robot jockies, or catching an exciting match of camel polo, in Dubai, their love of camels goes beyond their love of sports. Lucky for you, you can also ride your own. and I guarantee riding one is a memorable way to spend a day.

Submerge yourself

As water lovers, we’re excited to check out some of Dubai’s best swimming pools.

With it’s taste for opulence and the fact that there’s sunshine nearly every single day of the year, it’s no surprise that Dubai is home to some of the most beautiful swimming pools on earth.  Try swimming in a pool surrounded with nothing but sand dunes as far as the eye can see, or in the shadow of the largest building on earth. You can also swim on sky high terraces or lounge in luxurious comfort only a stones throw from the sea.

Tip: Check out some of the world’s most beautiful swimming pools on our Amazing Pools Pinterest Board!

Smell the flowers

When I think of Dubai, I think of desert and scorching temperatures, but that isn’t necessarily the case. In fact, Dubai has one of the world’s most famous and beautiful flower garden.

Visiting the the worlds largest natural flower garden at Dubai Miracle Garden is a must do for anyone who loves flowers. This sprawling, ever changing flower garden featuring giant buildings covered in flowers as well as fields of mesmerizing flower patterns might make you think you’re Alice in Wonderland rather than a scorching desert.

Find yourself

Feeling a little overwhelmed by all the things there are to do in Dubai?

Well, here’s a bonus one to help get you into the right frame of mind. Dubai’s Illumination Center is the city’s premiere holistic center. From yoga to feng shui they offer classes in nearly everything to get you centered as well as counselling and therapy classes.

Things to know before you go to Dubai

The largest and most populated city in the United Arab Emirates, Dubai has become one of the premier financial as well as a transport hubs in the Middle East and it’s also home to the tallest man made structure on the planet, the Burj Khalifa at 829.8 m (2,722 ft). Just look at that view!

With over 95 shopping malls and souks, dozens of mega structures, and a plethora of award winning restaurants and some amazing beaches, Dubai makes a great stopover and an even better vacation.

From taking a 4 wheel drive offroad safari across the desert to going sailing on the Persian Sea, there’s a lot to do both inside and just outside the city.

With hundreds of flights daily going to and from Dubai, what are you waiting for? It’s time to add Dubai to your travel list too.

Have you been to Dubai? Let us know if you had any unique Dubai experiences.